Dostum trip boosts security forces' morale in Faryab

MAIMANA (Pajhwok): Afghan forces recaptured parts of the Almar district of northwestern Faryab province from militants after 1st Vce-President Gen. Abdul Rashid Dostum visited the province, an official claimed on Monday.

The Qaraee area of Almar district, having 30 villages with a population of 30,000, had been seized by the insurgents in the wake of intense fighting on July 13.

Maj. Mohammad Reza Rezaee, spokesman for the 209th Shahin Military Corps, told Pajhwok Afghan News the locality was recaptured from rebels and fighting was underway. Seven militants were killed and several others wounded.

He said the operation was conducted by Afghan National Army (ANA) and backed by the Special Police Unit, Public Order Police, border police and members of uprising group.

Rezaee added that 20 villages were recaptured from militants by uprising group led by lawmaker Fathullah Qaisari on Sunday.

The clearing operation conducted as first vice-president General Dostum after long stay in Jawzjan province arrived to Faryab on Sunday.

Rezaee said that Dostum’s arrival to Faryab had bolstered moral of Afghan forces.

Speaking to a gathering, Dustom said that President Mohammad Ashraf Ghani directed him to visit Faryab and resolve people’s problems there.

“I agree with your complains. When I return to Kabul I will share your concerns with the president. I will appoint Faryab people both in military and civil departments,” he pledged.